Touriga Francesa, often known just as Touriga Franca, is one of the major grape varieties grown in Portugal. It is native to the Douro region and is also extensively cultivated in the Dão, Tejo, and Alentejo regions. The Touriga Francesa grape is traditionally known for its significant role in producing the renowned Port wines, though it is also used in creating still red wines.
The beauty of the Touriga Francesa grape lies in its adaptability, being able to resist the heat and aridity of the Douro Valley. It is a high yielding variety, generally more so than its kin, the Touriga Nacional, with clusters of small, darkly pigmented grapes which are rich in flavours and aromas.
The wines produced from the Touriga Francesa grape possess a fine balance of various characteristics. They typically present a deep colour along with robust tannins, making them ideal candidates for ageing. The demure floral notes, reminiscent of rose petals and violets, add a layer of complexity, while the undertones of dark fruits such as blackcurrants and blueberries contribute to its assertive, full-bodied nature.
Apart from being an excellent component in Port wines, the Touriga Francesa grape also showcases its versatility by producing an array of stand-alone red wines. These wines are rich and full-bodied, with a complex flavour profile that ranges from red and black fruit to licorice, often speckled with multi-layered floral and earthy notes. The adaptability of the Touriga Francesa grape, combined with its unique flavour profile, undoubtedly reinforces its status as a noteworthy grape variety in the expansive vineyards of Portugal.
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